BREAKING: FIA Confirms Key Safety Upgrades at Albert Park Ahead of...read more

FIA Implements Safety Modifications at Albert Park Ahead of 2025 Australian GP

The FIA has confirmed key safety updates to Melbourne’s Albert Park Circuit ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season opener, addressing concerns raised after significant crashes in last year’s event.

Turn 6 and 7 Safety Revisions

During the 2024 Australian Grand Prix, George Russell suffered a heavy crash at Turn 6 after Fernando Alonso braked earlier than expected. His Mercedes veered off-track before being thrown back onto the racing line, posing a major safety risk. Additionally, Williams’ Alex Albon crashed at the same section during free practice, further highlighting the dangers of the corner.

In response, the FIA explored multiple solutions, including re-profiling the corner, replacing the gravel trap with an asphalt run-off area, or modifying the barriers. Ultimately, the governing body opted to reposition the barriers to prevent cars from bouncing back onto the track after an impact.

To improve stability through Turns 6 and 7, the FIA has also replaced the kerbs with a single-specification negative kerb, which sits lower than the track surface. This change removes the transition from negative to positive kerbs, a factor previously linked to unsettling cars at high speeds.

Additionally, the gravel trap has been extended to the edge of the new kerbs, providing an improved run-off area to reduce the likelihood of cars re-entering the racing line after going off-track.

FIA Statement on Safety Enhancements

An FIA spokesperson confirmed the modifications, stating:

“Following a review of last year’s event at Albert Park, several changes to Turn 6 and Turn 7 have been approved in collaboration with the local ASN and the Grand Prix organisers. The intent is to remove the possibility of kerb transitions destabilizing a car and enhance overall safety in this section of the track.”

These updates aim to reduce the risk of high-speed incidents at Albert Park, ensuring a safer environment for drivers as Formula 1 returns to Melbourne for the first race of the 2025 season.